State Representative

Joan
Draper
Republican

Educational Background: School of Banking, Southern Methodist University; Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, University of San Francisco.

Prior Governmental Experience: None.

Community Activities: Daughters of the American Revolution; First Congressional District Republican Party, Precinct Committeeperson, Washington County; West Slope Republican Women; Oregon Chapter Volunteer for United Way Charities; Volunteer mentor, Portland and Beaverton Oregon School Districts.

"During my years in business, I was able to help many businesses grow and become profitable. I was, also, a 'turn-around specialist' who returned failing investments back to profitability. As State Representative, I will work to make state government better by maximizing our investment in schools, law enforcement and health care. As a community volunteer, mother and grandmother, I will work to make Oregon a better place for my family and yours." -Joan Draper

On Education:
I believe in quality education that promotes excellence and high achievement. Our children deserve the very best we can give them with responsible funding directed to the classroom where it benefits most.

On Safety:
I want to work toward an environment free from crime and drugs where we feel safe in our homes and neighborhoods. The serious methamphetamine problem in our society must be eradicated. I support the Jessica's Law initiative and want to keep child abusers behind bars.

On Taxation:
My business background has taught me that lower taxes across the board with an environment conducive to business creation results in many job opportunities. Further, it allows for economic growth and sustainability and increased tax revenues. I firmly believe in a controlled and balanced government budget.

On Healthcare:
The cost of healthcare has increased with the advent of more sophisticated medical procedures and a growing aging population. I believe in promoting programs that encourage the prevention of disease and healthy life styles. I support programs that enable cooperative small businesses efforts to negotiate with insurers for lower insurance premiums.